Japanese executives also attend the annual general meeting of the World Economic Forum, commonly known as the “Davos Conference,” where leaders of the world's political and business circles are held in Switzerland.



We asked Toshiaki Higashihara, chairman of Hitachi, Ltd., a major electronics manufacturer, who is participating in the conference, about what Japan should do as the theme of this year, "the division of the world," progresses.

Q. How do you view the intensifying US-China relationship?

At this year's Davos meeting, there were many messages to stop using the word "de-coupling".

What is needed now is "de-risking" to reduce or eliminate risks.



No matter how much we deny it, trade between Japan and China and trade between the United States and China are increasing, and we cannot talk about China without mentioning it.



That is why it is essential to thoroughly discuss what is hindering trust between the United States and China, and business should be expanded as business.

Q. How should we deepen the discussion?

We should stop thinking in zero or one.



Currently, the United States and China are in a situation where trust is lost because they are not able to have solid talks.



At such times, we should deepen communication in the form of the United States and China, Japan and China, and Japan and the United States, discuss what the issues are, and aim for solutions.

Under such circumstances, I would like Japan to take leadership as the chair of the G7, taking advantage of its ability to interact with the United States, Asia including China, and Europe.

Q. Can Japan really take the leadership?

i think i can get it



However, we need to be prepared, and we must send out a vision of how Japan will shape the world in the future.



Today, we care too much about international relations.



Politics is discussed and communicated in politics.



Companies should communicate more about what kind of business they are going to do.

Q. What should Japanese companies do?

Japan should go back to its origins once more.



The combination of manufacturing strength and digital technology, as well as technology in the environmental field, is important.



Japan is advanced in this field, and should push it to the fore.



I believe that by doing so, we can push Japanese industry to a higher level once again.